Mountain Crest’s Eddy Hall’s impact deeper than his stats

OGDEN — Mountain Crest’s Eddy Hall is a familiar name in the realm of Utah high school sports.

After all, Hall accounted for 4,462 total yards and 49 touchdowns during his gridiron career that will continue onward at Weber State next season. However, often overlooked, is his contributions on the hardwood.

“Eddy is a three-year starter. He’s mentally tough— he’s been in a lot of tough games as a football player and a basketball player,” Mountain Crest’s coach Graydon Buchmiller said of Hall following a 57-40 win over Maple Mountain in the first round of the boys 4A state tournament Tuesday. “I think he just shows a lot of senior leadership and understands what we need. He really gets that directed out on the floor.”

Hall certainly isn’t a stat-stuffer for the Mustangs (16-5). During his career, he’s averaged a mere 3.62 points per game and has only scored in double-digits six times. He doesn’t appear overly affective in assists or rebounds, either.

That said, make no mistake, Hall, who finished with seven assists, is the catalyst that keeps Mountain Crest pumping.

“My role is to give the playmakers — Tyler Crosbie and Faimafili — the ball,” said Hall while wearing suspenders and a red bowtie following the first round win.

His impact runs far deeper than distributing the ball.

What exactly might that be?

“To bring energy to the court,” Hall said.

With Hall’s spark, the Mustangs forced 19 turnovers and won the fast break and second-chance battles, 12-4 and 11-4, against the Eagles.